The 2017 Peloton Charity Events Pedal Advocacy Against Poverty(PaaP) ride was something to be proud of. Consider these incredible stats that we finished with. 1,300km, 16000m climbing covered in 8 days by 17 riders; Melbourne-Snowy Mountains-Canberra-Southern Highlands-Sydney. Over twice the height of Mt Everest in elevation climbed and over $64,000 in donation raised for the Baptist World Aid’s Vulnerable Children Fund and Bicycle NSW’s Environmental Trust.

Each day brought a new experience for all those involved. From the riders themselves to the support crew assisting, there was never a day that was the same as the last.

When we started off we never would’ve realised the different challenges we faced along the way, the great encounters we had, the friendships made and the breathtaking scenery we saw.

Departing Melbourne, we were full of energy and enthusiasm. We were lucky enough that the first couple of days were uneventful. We were also fortunate enough to have met many people along the way who helped ensure we reached our destination in the best condition possible.

We came across some challenging terrain and hills throughout the journey. Nothing compared to the Snowy Mountains and the need to tackle the highest through-road in Australia. It was definitely a push for the riders. The narrow Alpine Way road twisted up and into the mountains, making it a picturesque view for those involved.

On our travel into Canberra, we were joined by local riders as we passed the “Ghost Bike” memorial for cyclist Mike Hall. He was unfortunately killed in a bike accident during the Indian Pacific Wheel Race earlier this year. It was an emotional tribute to ride past. It is a mere reminder of how important the work into bicycle advocacy and safety is.

As we were nearing the finish line on our way in to Sydney, it was a time of reflection and pride as we looked back at the feat we had just completed. We were greeted by friends, family, and sponsors as we completed the ride at Barangaroo Reserve.

Nothing can beat the feeling of completing a physically and mentally challenging ride, especially when it is for such a great cause and to raise awareness.

Blackchrome National Cycling Manager Travis Eddie and fellow cyclist Todd Rowson participated in the ride for the first year and had this to say about their experiences:

“The ride took us on a route tailor made for cyclists- mostly quiet roads, stunning climbs and amazing coastline.” Mentioned Travis Eddie. “It was the most challenging cycling experience I’ve undertaken due to backing up day after day, managing fatigue and sore legs and it changes your perspective when you ‘only’ have to ride 120km and consider that a short day. The mateship formed on the road began early on the first day and only strengthened as the ride went on. We worked together, suffered together and once the riding was done- relaxed together.”

“The ride felt like a challenge the minute I accepted it.” Said Todd Rowson. “It gave me focus for my winter training in the knowledge that come Spring I would be attempting my first ever long distance multi day cycling event. From the moment I arrived on the eve of PaaP 2017, I could feel this would be something memorable. At the first briefing I could see how much effort had gone into organising the ride and support, and most of all felt a sense that besides the challenge in front of us the primary aim of the organisers was to look after the wellbeing of the group. The cycling tested me for endurance but knowing I was part of something bigger as a group, that meant different things for different people, and also raised thousands of dollars for charity made it all the more worthwhile!”

Founder, ride leader and captain Jon ‘Flying Scotsman’ Leighton said the following about the ride and what it meant to him:

“It was one of the hardest and most rewarding challenges ever. Why? Consider this. 1,300km completed and 16,000m of elevation climbed on the most scenic and toughest routes from Melbourne-Snowy Mountains-Canberra-Southern Highlands-Sydney. With $64,000 raised this year, this brings our total to $250,000 raised over the past three years by a fantastic group of friends and cyclists.

The amazing spirit in and out of the peloton was inspiring. With all the fundraising done, stories shared, King of the Mountains awarded, it was hard not to get motivated to push through. Peloton Events and their ride captains were a big part of that and are an amazingly skilled and knowledgeable group who know how to get the most out of their cyclists.

Special thanks to the support team led by Mark from Blackchrome with the help of Alex and Travis. The kit looked professional, flash and lovely to wear. Check out the socks!”

If you wish to donate to the PaaP cause, click here. 

In 2018 we will be back bigger and better than ever so stay tuned to  Peloton Events for more information. Click here for more information

Paap Ride - Trav